Bridgeport firefighters take extra precautions in extreme heat

Working in the extreme heat is tough, especially for members of the Bridgeport Fire Department. In addition to the already scorching temperatures, firefighters have to pack on an extra 50 to 60 pounds

News 12 Staff

Aug 1, 2006, 4:44 PM

Updated 6,619 days ago

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Working in the extreme heat is tough, especially for members of the Bridgeport Fire Department. In addition to the already scorching temperatures, firefighters have to pack on an extra 50 to 60 pounds of clothes and equipment. They say the key to keeping cool is to drink plenty of water. The chief also has more firefighters respond to each call, so that crews can rotate in and out more quickly. Safety officers are also on hand to make sure firefighters don't overexert themselves. The safety officers also make sure there is a command vehicle at every call to give firefighters an air-conditioned resting spot. Even with the added precautions, firefighters say the extreme heat takes a toll.